It is widely understood that the African American contribution to American culture has been crucial, even definitive, in music and dance, and increasingly vital in literature and theater. Have you ever wanted an opportunity to see a cross-section of twentieth century achievement in the visual arts by African Americans? The Nelson Gallery will offer just such an exhibition this summer. Shared Histories: African American Art from Local Collections will run from July 12th to August 18th with a free public reception from 6 to 8pm on July 12th. The Nelson is located in the UC Davis art building ground floor, room 124. Parking adjacent to the gallery is available in lot 6.

Organized by Nelson Board incoming President Fel Ramey, the exhibition presents work by such world-famous artists as Betye Saar, Jacob Lawrence, Elizabeth Catlett and Romare Bearden, as well as many others. All the work is being loaned from local private collections, modestly augmented by the Crocker Museum and the Nelson’s own collection. Nelson Director Renny Pritikin observes that, “This exhibition not only displays the tremendous visual arts talents in the African American tradition but also demonstrates the commitment to collecting of this work by residents of the Sacramento and Davis region.”

Thirty-four artists working in painting, drawing and sculpture will be represented in the exhibition. For more information and images please contact Torreya Cummings at tjcummings@ucdavis.edu